Empowering Industry Excellence

The Transformative Impact of IFPS Certifications in Fluid Power Education and Beyond

By Brian Wheeler, CFPAI, CFMIP, CFMM, CFAJPP, IFPS Board of Directors VP- membership,
Boeing Production System Training

Since 2016, I have had the privilege of teaching Fluid Power courses at the Boeing Company to mechanics and technicians. This opportunity has not only allowed me to share my passion for the subject but has also played a significant role in the growth of our industry. However, my responsibility as an instructor extends beyond the classroom. I have also dedicated my time to helping high school students understand the intricacies of Fluid Power by assisting on a First Robotics league team. The impact of IFPS Certifications which started for me in 2013 when I was still a shop floor mechanic taking care of CNC machines. I wanted to help drive safety, standardization, and quality within my company as so many lacked understanding and were just component swappers hoping that it would fix the problems with the machines.

IFPS Certifications are crucial in ensuring that professionals in the fluid power industry adhere to the highest standards of safety, quality, and performance. By obtaining these certifications, individuals demonstrate their expertise, proficiency, and commitment to upholding industry best practices. As an instructor, I emphasize the importance of IFPS Certifications to my students, highlighting how certification not only validates their knowledge and skills but also elevates the standards of the entire industry.

Having experienced the transformative power of IFPS Certifications in my own career, I understand firsthand the significance of these certifications in advancing one’s professional growth and opportunities. Achieving IFPS Certifications is a testament to dedication, hard work, and a deep understanding of fluid power principles. It opens doors to new career prospects, enhances credibility, and positions individuals as valuable assets in their fields.

The pride that comes with seeing my students successfully earn their IFPS Certifications is unparalleled. It signifies not only their academic achievement but also their readiness to contribute to the industry. Witnessing their growth from students grappling with complex theories to certified professionals ready to make a tangible impact in the field, is a rewarding journey that reinforces the importance of continuous learning and development.

Moreover, IFPS Certifications serve as a driving force for industry-wide improvement, setting benchmarks for excellence and promoting a culture of continuous improvement. Professionals who hold IFPS Certifications are equipped with the knowledge and skills to uphold the highest standards, contributing to a safer and more efficient field in which they work in.

As an educator, I take pride in guiding my students towards IFPS Certifications, knowing that the knowledge and competencies they acquire will not only benefit them individually but also contribute to the overall advancement of the industry. Seeing my students excel in their certification exams and emerge as certified professionals is a testament to the transformative power of education and certification in shaping successful careers.

In conclusion, teaching Fluid Power courses at the Boeing Company and witnessing my students achieve IFPS Certifications is a journey of pride, growth, and industry advancement. The combination of theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and certification attainment not only propels individuals towards success but also elevates the fluid power field as a whole. As an educator, I am committed to nurturing the next generation of certified professionals who will drive innovation, safety, and quality in the fluid power industry.